Large mammals surviving conflict in the eastern forests of Afghanistan

摘要: We used transect and camera-trap surveys DNA identification of scat samples to provide the first update since 1977 large mammals in montane forests conflict-ridden province Nuristan eastern Afghanistan. contains a range habitats from oak Quercus spp. treeless alpine steppes that historically hosted populations markhor Capra falconeri, Asiatic black bear Ursus thibetanus, grey wolf Canis lupus common leopard Panthera pardus, among others. Surveys conducted 2006–2009 an area 1,100 km2 by Wildlife Conservation Society confirmed presence some these species, also recorded palm civet Paradoxurus hermaphroditus, previously unknown Afghanistan; this extends westernmost boundary for species. The most commonly as determined direct sightings, or photographs, were Indian crested porcupine Hystrix indica, red fox Vulpes vulpes canid (grey golden jackal aureus). Despite indications significant habitat loss unsustainable hunting, globally important species persist targeted conservation programmes are required protection they inhabit surrounding communities who depend on both their survival.